Industrial lye victim gets full face transplant

Carmen Blandin Tarleton had a full facial surgery after being disfigured by estranged husband in 2007

A Vermont mother of two has received a full face transplant earlier this month at the Boston's Brigham and Women's Hospital.

Carmen Blandin Tarleton, 44, who was brutally attacked by former husband in 2007 burned on more than 80 per cent of her body after having throwing industrial strength lye at her.

In a 15 hours surgery, doctors transplanted the facial skin, muscles, arteries and nerves. Dr Elof Eriksson, Chief of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the hospital says it was a 'tremendous success' and she's now 'recovering very well'.

Ms Tarleton's sister read a statement from her: 'I feel really good and happy. This is the momentous opportunity in my life...What a great gift they've given to me.'